Another Sikh Canadian activist has received a “duty to warn” letter, raising concerns about the Carney government’s assertions regarding addressing Indian government foreign interference and transnational repression.
Inderjeet Singh Gosal disclosed that he was handed the letter on August 14 after being contacted by the RCMP in Caledon, Ont. These letters are typically issued by law enforcement when there is credible intelligence indicating a threat to an individual’s life, without disclosing specific details of the threat.
Gosal confirmed the receipt of the letter signed by two RCMP members and himself as the “Intended Victim.” He mentioned that the RCMP reiterated an earlier offer to enroll him in a witness protection program, which he declined, expressing his commitment to campaigning for the Khalistan referendum over personal safety.
Khalistan refers to the proposed independent Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region. The recent non-binding referendums conducted by Sikhs for Justice across various diaspora communities have sparked tensions with the Indian government.
Following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun appointed Gosal as the new leader of the Canadian referendum campaign. This latest warning marks Gosal’s sixth official police alert.
These warnings are part of a series of alerts issued by Canadian authorities since the Carney government initiated normalization efforts with the Narendra Modi government. The strained relations between Canada and India have led to diplomatic downsizing following allegations of Indian involvement in Nijjar’s assassination.
Despite efforts to mend relations, duty to warn letters persist, indicating ongoing threats. Canada has faced scrutiny from UN rapporteurs regarding its handling of threats to Sikh Canadians, particularly activists like Moninder Singh in British Columbia. The government has reassured the UN of its commitment to protecting its citizens, but concerns remain, as exemplified by the continuous issuance of warning letters.
Gosal acknowledged the RCMP’s duty but criticized the Carney government for its approach. He remains resolute in his activism, highlighting the upcoming referendum as a democratic exercise that the Indian government aims to suppress through transnational repression.
India has denied any involvement in violent acts in Canada, including the Nijjar case. Gosal reaffirmed his determination to continue his campaign despite the threats he faces.
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/sikh-activist-threat-rcmp-india-9.7311154)